Photography + Travel

Menu

Tag Archives: Ruins

Known as Pompeii of the East, Jeresh was our second stop in Jordan. I was very impressed with the size of the archeological site and the quality and quantity of ruins to be found there. This once spectacular city was largely destroyed by an earthquake in 749AD, with further earthquakes and war further decimating the city, it was not until 1806 that is was discovered and excavation and reconstruction work began. The remains of Greco-Roman Jeresh which can be see today include: The Corinthium column, Hadrian’s Arch, the circus/hippodrome, the two large temples (dedicated to Zeus and Artemis), the nearly unique oval Forum, which is surrounded by a fine colonnade, the long colonnaded street or cardo, two theatres (the Large South Theatre and smaller North Theatre), two baths, and a scattering of small temples and an almost complete circuit of city walls. Spending half a day is more than enough to more than adequately explore the ruins of the old city.

The visit to Jeresh was part of my tour, but being so close to Amman, not more than an hour’s drive, I’m sure that there would be public transport services between Amman and Jeresh, making a day trip to see these amazing ruins quite easily achievable from Amman.

This is the first post from my recent trip to the Middle East, namely Jordan, Turkey & Israel. I made a reasonably short trip to this area (when I travel, I tend to like going for at least a month or two, so three weeks for me is quite shirt), but absolutely loved it.

I began my travels in Amman, joining a seven day tour of Joran with Topdeck – http://www.topdeck.travel. I arrived in Amman early on the morning prior to the day of the tour commencement, do I had a day to explore the city.

The staff at the hotel were very helpful in advising me how to get to the centre with a taxi, ensuring me that it was perfectly safe. Even though Jordan is situated in a area of the world which is currently full of turmoil, Jordan has a surprisingly low level of crime and Amman is quite a safe city to navigate alone. So I spent the day exploring downtown and visiting the citadel and roman theatre.

Essentials:

Getting around:Taxis are the best mode of transport in Amman – they are cheap and are everywhere. A trip anywhere in the city shouldn’t cost you more than a few dinars.

Eat:
I found a awesome street vendor in downtown selling felafel sandwiches (pita bread stuffed with felafels, hommus & french fries) for a dinar. Also head to the downtown fruit markets for an amazing array of fresh fruit, from figs to pomegranates, peaches and dates.

Don’t miss:
Head to Rainbow Street for a night out on the town. Full of both local and international people, the vibe is young and upbeat. There is a plethora of bars, restaurants and cafes, with friendly staff and great atmospheres. This seems to be the place to be if you are anyone and everyone.